How to Become a Bail Agent in Los Angeles

California bail agents are licensed to enforce bail restrictions. If a criminal defendant violates the terms of his bail, a bail agent -- also called a bounty hunter -- will retrieve the defendant and turn him over the courts. To be a Los Angeles bail agent, you must receive your California bail agent license. The process is designated to ensure that you know all of the laws pertaining to bail enforcement and have the suitable background to perform the task.

• 1

  Take 12 hours of pre-licensing education classes with an accredited provider (see Resources).

• 2

  Fill out the bail agent license application and the Notice of Appointment form for each surety company you intend to work for. Make copies of all the forms you intend to use as a bail agent (see Resources). Mail this information along with a check for $213 per appointment and $42 for the exam fee to:

  California Department of Insurance

  P.O. Box 1139

  Sacramento, CA 95812-1139

• 3

  Obtain your fingerprint scans from a licensed vendor and have it submit the scans to the state of California (see Resources).

• 4

  Pass the written exam to verify your knowledge of the California Penal Code, the California Insurance Code and the California Code of Regulations.